Mrs. Joan Carol Werle

Joan C. Werle, born in Chicago Illinois on January 19, 1937, died May 6, 2013, in Vista California. Joan passed in the presence of her daughter Nancy, Grand-daughter Cassi, and son Mike. Joan's husband Matt passed previously. Joan is survived by her four children, Jean, Matt, Mike and Nancy. Joan's grandchildren are Jonathan, Jake, Jenna (Jean's children); Matt, Ryan, Shannon (Matt's children); Sarah, Joe (Mike's children); and Cassi (Nancy's child). Joan has one great grand child, Madison, daughter of Matt. Joan was also blessed with many caring in-laws, friends and family. A memorial service was held at St. Paul's Church in Pismo Beach California. The memorial was originally to be presided over by Fr. Peter Parchem, but Fr. Peter unexpectedly passed the week before the service. Joan was interred in St. Mary's cemetery in Techny, Illinois. This was one of her major wishes and it was amazing that the brothers and administration of Divine Word Missionaries honored that request. The fact that her father Herb set it up before his passing is also truly remarkable and shows foresight. A picture of Joan's final resting place is included in this tribute. Joan passed from end stage liver disease. Joan battled liver disease for over 20 years. A major contributing factor is likely to have been the genetic disease of hemachromatosis, which is a buildup of iron in the major organs, including the liver. Unfortunately Joan was never confirmed for the genetic variant, but this genetic disease has been confirmed to be present in her children. The writer of this text is Mike, and I am a carrier for this genetic disease. Joan had all the characteristic traits for this disease, and unfortunately it was not diagnosed in time. Joan and Matt were married, and are eternally linked. The attached image of the grave stone in Techny is both a tribute to Matt, and marker for Joan's remains. Matt is not interred at Techny. Matt donated his body to the UCSD willed body program. In this way Matt wanted to allow his body to be used to train future doctors. Matt's quote is that "this body is not me". Matt was cremated and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean. This was done according to his wishes. The marker at Techny was requested by Joan since she wanted it to match the marker of her parents above her. All in all it was a symbolic and fitting fulfillment of all their wishes.

Mrs. Joan Carol Werle

January 19, 1937 - May 6, 2013